Torque-transmitting assembly and method

摘要

A multi-mode torque-transmitting assembly includes a plate-supporting element having an axis, and a plate connected to the plate-supporting element such that the plate is axially movable with respect to the plate-supporting element between a first position and a second position in response to applied axial forces. Furthermore, the assembly includes a movement-inhibiting member in sufficient cooperation with the plate for selectively inhibiting axial movement of the plate. The movement-inhibiting member inhibits movement of the plate from the first position in response to a first axial force, and allows movement of the plate toward the second position in response to a second axial force greater than the first axial force, such that the assembly is operable in more than one mode.